In this post, I am going to tell you everything you need to know about a Diploma in Nursing.
I am a second-year nursing student at the University of Pennsylvania who understands how confusing the paths to become a nurse can be.
So if you want actual answers on how to enter the healthcare field, you’ll love this easy walkthrough.
Let’s Begin…
- What Is A Diploma In Nursing?
- How Long Does A Diploma In Nursing Take?
- How Much Does A Diploma In Nursing Cost?
- How Much Money Do You Make With A Diploma In Nursing?
- Associate's Degree In Nursing (ADN) Vs. Diploma in Nursing
- Bachelor Of Science In Nursing (BSN) Vs. Diploma In Nursing
- Should I Get A Diploma In Nursing?
- Final Word
What Is A Diploma In Nursing?
A Diploma in Nursing (Nursing Diploma), also known as a RN diploma, is one of the oldest forms of nursing certification. It is one of three ways to become a registered nurse (RN) in 2022.
Interestingly, it represents the smallest amount of recent certification for RN’s. According to the National League for Nursing, from 2003-2014, only 3-4% of new RN’s received diplomas.
It is completed through an accredited hospital-based diploma program, in which students receive hands-on training in the field of nursing.
One big downside to a diploma is that students DO NOT receive a college degree. This can limit future salary and job advancement.
How Long Does A Diploma In Nursing Take?
It is currently the fastest way to become a registered nurse in 2022.
The diploma program takes about 2 years to complete. Which qualifies students to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX) and apply for a state nursing license.
How Much Does A Diploma In Nursing Cost?
There is not that much information on the web about the total cost for programs. After browsing a couple of website prices:
A full diploma in nursing program can cost about $16,000-$26,000.
For that reason, I would say that is not a bad investment if you compare it to future job salary.
How Much Money Do You Make With A Diploma In Nursing?
I did not find any current information for salaries for nurses only with diplomas.
Regardless, I used information on nurses with an Associate Degree (ADN) to estimate salaries. A nurse with a diploma has less education than a nurse with an ADN.
Considering that information, I would estimate that the entry level salary for a diploma in nursing would be about $47,000 a year in 2022.
The average salary across all nurses with a diploma in nursing would be about $65,000 a year in 2022.
*I estimated these numbers with data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics, education comparison, and personal insight.*
Associate’s Degree In Nursing (ADN) Vs. Diploma in Nursing
Receiving a Diploma or an ADN are both ways to become an RN in 2022. In short, both routes take the NCLEX and apply for state licensure.
Differences between the two are:
Time In school
As a result of shorter curriculum requirements, diploma is generally shorter than an ADN by about 1 year.
Cost
An ADN can cost around $6,000-$20,000, which seems to be relatively cheaper.
Education
An ADN covers clinical experience, Associate Degree requirements, and college credit; while a diploma only gives students clinical experience.
Salary
Nurses with an ADN make about $71,000 a year, while nurses with diplomas make about $65,000 a year.
Bachelor Of Science In Nursing (BSN) Vs. Diploma In Nursing
Obtaining a Diploma or a BSN are both ways to become an RN in 2022. Both routes take the NCLEX and apply for state licensure.
Common differences are:
Time in School
A diploma is much shorter than a BSN by about 2 years, as a result of shorter curriculum requirements and no awarded college credit.
Cost
A BSN program can cost around $40,000-$200,000, which is significantly more than a diploma.
Education
A BSN gives students a 4-year college degree, which is extremely competitive in today’s job market. Conversely, a diploma does not provide the student with any college credit.
Salary
A nurse with a BSN makes about $84,000 a year, while a nurse with only a diploma makes about $65,000 a year.
Should I Get A Diploma In Nursing?
This answer would depend on your preference for time/cost of school and future employment opportunities.
Undoubtably, if you want to become an RN in the shortest amount of time, keep costs low, and avoid college as much as you can, I would say a diploma is for you.
However, if you want to future career opportunities after becoming an RN, then I would consider an ADN or BSN.
Final Word
Hopefully, you now understand everything about a Diploma in Nursing.
Additionally, now that you know what it is, you can make a better decision on choosing your education of choice.
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Until next time!